“About 80 per cent of Dravet syndrome cases are caused by a mutation in a gene called SCN1A,” Professor King said.

“When this gene doesn’t work as it should, sodium channels in the brain which regulate brain activity do not function correctly.

“In our studies, the peptide from spider venom was able to target the specific channels affected by Dravet, restoring the function of the brain neurons and eliminating seizures.”

Professor King said the discovery, made in collaboration with The Florey’s Professor Steven Petrou, was the latest to demonstrate the unique effectiveness of spider venom in treating nervous system disorders.

“Millions of years of evolution have refined spider venom to specifically target certain ion channels, without causing side effects on others, and drugs derived from spider venoms retain this accuracy.”

“This latest finding may help develop precision medicines for treatment of Dravet syndrome epilepsy, which has been difficult to treat effectively with existing seizure medication.”